The Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) is a standardized cognitive assessment that determines whether a resident has signs and symptoms of delirium. “Understanding that delirium is serious and treatable is critical,” says Carol Maher, RN-BC, RAC-MTA, RAC-MT, RAC-CTA, RAC-CT, CPC. “This section requires the assessor to really drill down into whether there has been an acute change in cognitive status and whether the behaviors seen fluctuate or are always there."

Read this article for steps NACs can take to help ensure this MDS items and all subitems are coded accurately.